January 2026 Safe Sport Feature: Respect in Sport: Building a Culture of Respect in Every Gym
January 1, 2026
Respect is at the heart of safe sport. The Respect in Sport (RiS) program helps coaches, leaders, parents and volunteers learn how to recognize, prevent, and respond to maltreatment in sport.
What is RiS?
RiS is an online training program that equips you with practical tools for creating safe, respectful environments. It focuses on communication, boundaries, and awareness of misconduct.
Who Needs It:
- All GymBC coaches aged 15+ must complete RiS.
- Certificates should be kept on file at the club and shared with GymBC.
Why It Matters:
- Builds positive coach-athlete relationships.
- Promotes confidence in families.
- Helps create a common language of respect across our community.
How Clubs Can Support:
- Track completion dates to ensure coaches remain certified.
- Offer club-wide RiS workshops or refresher sessions.
- Integrate RiS principles into club policies and orientations.
- Activate the RiS for Parents program in your gym.